Ergonomic Mascara Applicator

ABSTRACT

An ergonomic applicator is provided for applying a cosmetic composition to the eyelashes. The applicator comprises a handle portion and a head portion wherein the longitudinal axis of the head portion is positioned or can be rotatably positioned at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The handle being suitable dimensioned for holding between the thumb and fingers without rotation of the handle. The head portion having at its distal end means for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring it to the eyelashes on contact therewith, such as but not limited to, bristles, projections, indentations fins, tines, Velcro, teeth, grooves, sponges and flocked surfaces.

This application claims priority to International Application Serial No.PCT/US09/60252 filed Oct. 9, 2009 which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/104,368, filed Oct. 10, 2008,U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/104,369, filed Oct. 10,2008, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/104,373, filedOct. 10, 2008, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to applicators for cosmetics.More particularly, the present invention relates to ergonomicapplicators for applying a cosmetic composition to eyelashes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional applicators for applying mascara compositions to eyelashesgenerally include a brush held on an elongated rod that is connected toa handle. The bristles of the brush project radially from the rod. Thebrush and rod are usually housed in a cylindrical container. The brushhandle forms a closure for the container when the mascara applicator isnot in use.

When use of the mascara applicator is desired, the handle is pulled awayfrom the container to remove the mascara-laden brush. During applicationof mascara to the eyelashes, the brush rod is generally positionedparallel to the face, and oriented horizontally with the brush handleheld beside a cheek or temple for purposes of manipulation and alignmentof the brush with the eyelashes.

During transfer of mascara to the eyelashes, the brush is twisted orrotated along its central axis and moved in a vertical up and downmotion, while held in the horizontal position, such as up to theforehead to do the top eyelashes, and down from the forehead to do thebottom eyelashes.

Some users will hold the mascara brush handle in the right hand to applymascara to the right eyelashes, and switch the brush handle to the lefthand to apply mascara to the left eyelashes. Other users favor the rightor left hand and use the favored hand to apply mascara to the eyelashesof both the right and left eyes.

However, even when the favored hand is used for the eyelashes of botheyes, it may be necessary to hold the mascara applicator in the oppositehand to get to the extreme ends of the eyelash that are furthest fromthe favored hand or closest to the nose bridge.

It should be noted that the application of mascara with conventionalmascara applicators usually requires dozens of repeated strokes androtations or twists to achieve the desired eyelash appearance. Becauseof the manner in which a conventional mascara applicator is held andmanipulated the application of mascara can be a difficult and tiresomeexercise.

It is thus desirable to provide a mascara applicator that can be easilymanipulated with a favored or non-favored hand for applying mascara. Itis also desirable to provide a mascara applicator that can beconveniently held with the hand positioned directly in front of the facerather than off to one side of the head. It is further desirable toprovide a mascara applicator that can be easily manipulated in the samehand to apply mascara to the full range of eyelash for both eyes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An ergonomic applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to theeyelashes is provided comprising (i) a handle portion and (ii) a headportion. The handle portion is suitably dimensioned to permit theapplicator to be held between the thumb and fingers on opposing facesthereof. The opposing faces are of sufficient width relative to thethickness separating the faces to prevent rotation of the handle whenheld between the thumb and fingers. Preferably, the maximum thicknessseparating the faces of the handle portion compared to the maximum widthof the handle portion is at a ratio from about 1:5 to about 1:50. Thehead portion has at its distal end at least one transfer elementcomprising a textured surface for holding a charge of cosmeticcomposition and transferring it to the eyelashes on contact therewith.The transfer element extends substantially across the width of the headportion and in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of thehandle. The longitudinal axis of the head portion is oriented, or isrotatable to be oriented, at an obtuse angle with respect to thelongitudinal axis of said handle. The obtuse angle is preferably fromabout 120 degree to about 170 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, theapplicator has a total length from its proximal end to its distal endfrom about 35 mm to about 80 mm.

In some embodiments, the head portion has a terminal arcuate edge at thedistal end thereof, said arcuate edge being concave with respect to thehead portion. The head portion may also have an arcuate cross-sectionabout its longitudinal axis. In an alternative embodiment, the headportion may include a first support and a second support defining anopening therebetween for receiving a transfer element. The transferelement may be mounted between the first and second supports.Additionally, the handle portion may include finger grip enhancements orcut-outs to increase friction between the handle portion and the thumbor fingers.

The transfer element may be included on one or both opposing faces ofthe head portion. Alternatively, the transfer element is disposed alongthe terminal edge at the distal end of the head portion. The transferelement may include at least one textured surface, such as bristles,projections, indentations, fins, tines, Velcro, teeth, grooves, sponges,or flocked surfaces. Preferably, the textured surface includes fins orbristles. More preferably, the bristles have a length less than 5 mm.

In certain embodiments, the head portion is rotatably adjustable withrespect to said handle portion so as to adjust the obtuse angle betweensaid longitudinal axis of said head portion and said longitudinal axisof said handle portion. Preferably, the head portion and the handleportion are rotatable about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axisof the head portion and the longitudinal axis of the handle portion. Theapplicator may further include a hinge permitting rotation of the headportion with respect to the handle portion.

A kit including the applicator of the present invention and a containercharged with a liquid cosmetic for application to a keratin fiber isalso provided. The container is configured to receive the head portionof the applicator when inserted into the container so as to bring saidtransfer element into contact with the composition. A wiper is attachedto the container for removing excess composition from the transferelement upon removal of the applicator from the container.

In addition, the applicator is used in a method for applying mascara tothe eyelashes. The method includes metering a charge of mascara onto thetransfer element of the applicator and transferring the composition tothe eyelashes by contacting the transfer element with the eyelasheswhile holding the applicator in a substantially vertical position.

These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art after a reading of the following detailed descriptionof the invention, including the figures and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a side view of a mascara applicator according to a generalembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theinvention having bristles on opposing faces of the head portion andfin-like projections at the distal end of the applicator.

FIG. 3 shows a different perspective view of the exemplary embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of theinvention illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 shows a front perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of the invention having a reduced brush density and havingbristles on only one face of the head portion.

FIG. 6 shows a front perspective view of an alternative exemplaryembodiment of the invention having a further reduced brush density andhaving bristles on only one face of the head portion.

FIG. 7 shows a different front perspective view of the exemplaryembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 shows a different front perspective view of the exemplaryembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 shows a different front perspective view of the exemplaryembodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 6.

FIG. 11 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIG. 12 shows a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment ofthe invention illustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of theinvention having the parallel fins that wrap around the terminal edge atthe distal end of the applicator.

FIG. 14 shows a side perspective view of the head portion of theexemplary applicator shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of theinvention having a concave terminal edge in the head portion formingside legs for attaching to the ends of an elongated transfer element.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the exemplary applicator shown inFIG. 13 wherein the transfer member is removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The inventive applicator for applying a cosmetic composition generallyincludes angles and/or curvatures that provides an ergonomic shape toimprove a user's comfort in applying the cosmetic composition.Specifically, the applicator according to the invention is particularlyuseful for application of a cosmetic composition, such as mascara, tothe eye. The applicator according to the invention may also be usefulfor application of a variety of cosmetic and personal care products tokeratin fibers or to the skin, including without limitation, eyeliner,hair dye, lipliner, lipstick, lipcolor, lip gloss, etc. As used herein,the term “keratin fibers” may include, without limitation, eyelashes,eyebrows, or hair of any part of the body, including the scalp. It isbelieved that the applicator of the present invention has anadvantageous shape that allows the applicator to be more convenientlyheld in the hand of a user and more easily manipulated by a single handto apply the cosmetic composition in an efficient and even manner ascompared to conventional cosmetic applicators. In addition, it isbelieved that the applicator of the present invention is capable ofproviding increased coverage of eyelashes with each stroke and moreuniform distribution of mascara compositions across the length of theeyelashes as compared to conventional cosmetic applicators. Withoutbeing bound by any theory, it is believed that increased coverage ofeyelashes with each stroke is achieved by the advantageous size andshape which provides for increased contact area with the eyelashes.Accordingly, it is believed that the applicator can effectively depositmascara to the eyelashes using fewer strokes than with a conventionalapplicator.

A general embodiment of the applicator 10 according to the invention isshown in FIG. 1. The applicator 10 for applying a cosmetic composition,such as a mascara composition, to the eyelashes includes a handleportion 16 at the proximal end 80 and a head portion 14 at a distal end70. The handle portion 10 may be operably linked to the head portion 14in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the head portion 14 and thehandle portion 16 may be integral and formed together in one piece.Alternatively, the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16 may beformed as separate structures and joined together using any suitabletechnique in the art. For example, the head portion 14 and the handleportion 16 may be joined by a hinge, by a friction-fit mechanism, by alocking mechanism, by an adhesive, or by fusing a distal end of thehandle portion 16 with a proximate end of the head portion 14. In oneembodiment, the head portion 14 may be detachably attached to the handleportion 16. In particular, the handle portion 16 may be detachable fromand interchangeably attachable to a plurality of head portions 14.

The handle portion 16 and the head portion 1.4 may be connected in anysuitable orientation. In one embodiment, the handle portion 16 may beco-linear with the head portion 14 of the applicator 10. Preferably, thehandle portion 16 is connected to or integral with the head portion 10at an angle forming a bended shape, having a generally convex shape onone side where the head portion 14 is linked to the handle portion 16and a generally concave shape on an opposing side. The bended shape maybe a slight or an exaggerated deviation from a co-linear formation,forming an offset between the head portion 10 and the handle portion 16.It is believed that this offset provides a more ergonomic shape to theapplicator 10 and can facilitate application of mascara to the eyelashesin a more efficient and uniform manner as compared to conventionalmascara applicators. In certain embodiments, the applicator 10 may bethe widest at the distal end 70 and taper to the narrowest point on theapplicator 10 at the bend where the head portion 14 is linked to thehandle portion 16. It is also believed that the ergonomic shape of theapplicator 10 can improve comfort, allow the applicator 10 to be moreconveniently held in the hand of a user, and provide better ability formanipulating the applicator 10 with a single hand.

The applicator 10 of the present invention May be in any suitable sizeand shape. Preferably, the size and shape of the applicator 10 make itconvenient and comfortable for use with either hand, regardless ofwhether a user has a favored hand for applying mascara to the eyelashes.In situations where a user holds the applicator 10 only with the favoredhand for, application of mascara to the eyelashes on both the left andright eyes, the applicator 10 is capable of easily accessing the fullrange of eyelashes for both eyes, including those eyelashes that arefurthest from the favored hand or closest to the nose bridge.

Preferably, the applicator 10 may be in a relatively small andconvenient size for portable use by a consumer. More preferably, theapplicator 10 may be in a size that allows the applicator 10 to be heldfirmly between the thumb and fingers and prevents radial movements ofthe applicator 10 during use and manipulation by a consumer. Forexample, the total length (L) of the applicator 10 at the longest pointfrom the proximal end 80 to the distal end 70 may range from about 15 mmto about 80 mm, from about 25 mm to about 80 mm, from about 25 mm toabout 75 mm, from about 35 mm to about 80 mm, from about 35 mm to about65 mm, or from about 40 mm to about 60 mm. In a specific embodiment, thetotal length (L) of the applicator 10 at the longest point may beapproximately two inches (or about 50.8 mm), with the handle portion 16being slightly more than one inch (about 25.4 mm) in length and the headportion 14 being slightly less than one inch (about 25.4 mm) in length.As used herein, the total length of the applicator 10 is determined bymeasuring the length of a third side of a triangle defined on two sidesby the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16. in certain embodimentswhere the head portion 14 and the handle portion 16 are co-linear and donot overlap in length, the total length (L) is the sum of the length ofthe head portion 14 and the length of the handle portion 16. Othersuitable dimensions for a relatively small and convenient size include awidth of the distal end 70 of the head portion 14 ranging from about 10mm to about 50 mm, from about 12.5 mm to about 45 mm, from about 15 mmto about 40 mm, from about 17.5 mm to about 35 mm, or from about ¾ inch(about 19.1 mm) to about 1¼ inch (about 31.8 mm) and a width of theapplicator 1.0 at its narrowest point ranging from about 5 mm to about30 mm, from about 7.5 to about 20 mm, from about 8 mm to about 15 mm, orfrom about five sixteenths of an inch (about 7.9 mm) to about threeeighths of an inch (about 9.5 mm).

It is contemplated by the present invention that the head portion 14 andhandle portion 16 of the applicator 10 may include other shapes andsizes that are ergonomically comfortable to hold and manipulate.

In a preferred embodiment, the longitudinal axis I-I of the handleportion 16 is positioned or capable of being positioned at an obtuseangle θ with respect to the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion10. By obtuse angle, it is meant that the angle is greater than 90degrees but less than 180 degrees. The handle portion 16 and the headportion 10 of the applicator 10 may be fixed at, rotatably adjustableto, or capable of being deformed along an axis orthogonal to thelongitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16 and the longitudinal axisII-II of the head portion 14 to form the angle θ. In one embodiment, thehandle portion 16 may be connected to the head portion 14 via anadjustable hinge (not shown). Specifically, the range of motion of theadjustable hinge may be limited to form only obtuse angles. In anotherembodiment, the applicator 10 may be formed from a deformable materialto allow a user to bend and deform the applicator 10 to a suitable angleθ. Preferably, the angle θ between the longitudinal axis I-I of thehandle portion 16 and the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14range from about 95 to about 175 degrees, more preferably from about 115to about 170 degrees, even more preferred from about 120 to about 170degrees, still more preferred from about 130 to about 165 degrees, andmost preferably from about 140 to about 160 degrees.

The handle portion 14 of the applicator 10 may have any suitabledimensions that permit the applicator to be held between the thumb andfingers and prevent rotation of the handle when held between the thumband fingers. Preferably, the handle portion 16 is narrower than the headportion 14. In one embodiment, as shown in the exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention illustrated in FIGS. 2 through 16, the handleportion 14 includes two opposing faces 86, 88 having sufficient widthrelative to the thickness separating the faces to prevent rotation ofthe handle portion 14 when held between the thumb and fingers. Thethickness separating the two faces may be uniform throughout or may bevariable. Particularly, the ratio of the dimension of the maximumthickness separating the faces to the width of the widest point of thehandle portion 14 may range from about 1:2 to about 1:50, from about 1:5to about 1:50, from about 1:3 to about 1:25, or from about 1:4 to about1:20, from about 1:5 to about 1:10. In certain embodiments, the maximumthickness separating the faces may range from about 1 mm to about 10 mm,from about 1.25 mm to about 5 mm, from about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm. Incertain embodiments, the handle portion 14 may be substantially within alinear or curved plane. In another embodiment, the handle portion 14 maybe flat.

The handle portion 14 may also include any suitable modifications thatimprove the comfort and/or stability of the applicator 10 when heldbetween the thumb and fingers. One suitable modification includes aconvex contour on at least one of the opposing faces 86 and 88 of thehandle portion 14. Another suitable modification may be a convex contouron face 88 of the handle portion 14, which is adapted to be held by athumb, and a concave contour on the opposing face 86 of the handleportion 14, which is adapted to be held by the fingers. Alternatively,another suitable modification to the handle portion 14 is shown in theexemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 through 12. The modification mayinclude finger grip enhancements 94 that are attached to or formedintegrally with the handle portion 14. The finger grip enhancements 94may include any means for increasing the friction of the handle portion14 against the thumb and/or fingers, such as but are not limited to,raised semi-circles, ridges, depressions, other shaped projections orvoid spaces between such projection. The finger grip enhancements 94 maybe formed unitarily with the handle portion 14 or may be attached by anysuitable means, including an adhesive or fusion of the enhancements 94with the handle portion 14. The finger grip enhancements 94 may beformed using any suitable technique, including molding and finishingtechniques such as soft touch finish or co-extrusion of polymers.

Another suitable modification is shown in another exemplary embodimentof the present invention shown in FIGS. 13, 15 and 16. The handleportion 14 may be modified to include cut-outs or openings 58 thatincrease friction between the handle portion 14 and the thumb and/orfingers, thereby facilitate gripping of the handle 16. The cut-outs oropenings 58 may be in any suitable shape. Preferably, the cut-outs oropenings 58 are narrow or elongated. In the specific embodiments shownin FIGS. 13, 15 and 16, the cut-outs or openings 58 have an oval shape.In addition, as shown in FIGS. 13, 15 and 16, the cut-outs or openings58 may be arranged parallel to each other. More preferably, the cut-outsor openings 58 having a length perpendicular to the longitudinal axisI-I of the handle portion 14.

The head portion 16 is the part of the applicator 10 in contact with atleast one transfer element 56 for applying the cosmetic composition.Preferably, the head portion 14 is narrower at its proximal end, whereit is linked to the handle portion 16, than at the distal end 70. Thehead portion 16 provides structural support for the transfer element 56.Additionally, the surface(s) of the head portion 16 may be textured toform a transfer element 56. Preferably, the transfer element 56 extendssubstantially across the width of the head portion 14 and in a directionorthogonal to the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16. Bysubstantially across the width, it is meant that the transfer element 56extends more than 70%, preferably more than 80%, more preferably morethan 90% and most preferably more than 95% of the width of the headportion 14. The transfer element 56 may also extend across the entirewidth of the head portion 14. In addition, the transfer element 56 mayhave any suitable shape. Specifically, the transfer element 56 may havean arcuate exterior shape that substantially conforms or conforms to atleast a quarter, at least a third, at last half or all of the contoursformed by the eyelashes or the eyelid. In certain embodiments, thearcuate exterior shape is convex while in other embodiments, the arcuateexterior shape may be concave. In some embodiments, the head portion 16and the transfer element 56 may be unitary such as in the case where thetransfer element 56 constitutes textured surfaces integral with the headportion 16. For example, the head portion 16 and the transfer element 56may be molded as a solitary piece by injection-molding.

In a preferred embodiment, such as those exemplary embodiments shown inFIGS. 2 through 14, the head portion 16 may have two opposing faces 40,42 with a thickness in between. The thickness between opposing faces 40and 42 may be uniform throughout or may be variable. In one preferredembodiment, the thickness of the head portion 16 is at a maximum alongits longitudinal axis II-II and decreases as the distance from thelongitudinal axis II-II increases. The transfer element 56 may extendfrom one or both of the opposing faces 40, 42. The transfer element 56may also extend from the distal end 70 of the head portion 14 of theapplicator 10. The maximum thickness of the head portion 16 may be lessthan the width of the widest point of the head portion 16. Inparticular, the maximum thickness separating the opposing faces 40, 42as compared to the width of the widest point of the head portion 16 mayhave a ratio from about 1:2 to about 1:50, from about 1:5 to about 1:25,or from about 1:10 to about 1:20. In specific embodiments, the maximumthickness separating the opposing faces of the head portion 16 may rangefrom about 1 mm to about 10 mm, from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, fromabout 1.25 mm to about 5 mm, from about 1.5 mm to about 3 mm.

The head portion 16 may also include an additional axis of rotationperpendicular to the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 (notshown). The head portion 16 may be further adjustable about thisadditional axis. Specifically, the head portion 16 may be formed fromtwo pieces rotatably attached to each other by an adjustable hinge alongthis additional axis. The range of motion of the adjustable hinge may belimited to form only obtuse angles. Preferably, the adjustable hinge maybe limited to movements between from about 95 to about 175 degrees, morepreferably from about 100 to about 170 degrees, even more preferred fromabout 100 to about 170 degrees, more preferred still from about 105 toabout 165 degrees, and most preferably from about 110 to about 160degrees.

Preferably, the head portion 16 may have any suitable shape thatsubstantially conforms to or conforms to at least a quarter of thecontours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid. In one preferredembodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 through 12 any cross-section about thelongitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 may have an arcuateshape. Preferably, the arcuate shape substantially conforms to orconforms to at least a quarter, at least a third, at last half or all ofthe contours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid. The arcuatecross-section of the head portion 16 about the longitudinal axis II-IImay be convex along the top face 40 and concave along the bottom face42. Alternatively, the cross-section of the head portion along the topand bottom faces 40, 42 may be concave/concave, convex/convex,planar/planar or any combinations thereof. In another preferredembodiment, the head portion 16 has a terminal arcuate edge, preferablya concave edge, at the distal end 70 as shown in FIGS. 4 through 6 and13. The terminal concave edge substantially conforms to or conforms toat least a quarter, at least a third, at last half or all of thecontours formed by the eyelashes or the eyelid.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in the exemplary embodiment shownin FIGS. 15 and 16, the head portion 16 may include a first support,such as a first side leg 30, on a right side of the longitudinal axisII-II of the head portion 16 and a second support, such as a second sideleg 32, on the left side of the longitudinal axis II-II. The first andsecond supports form an opening therebetween for receiving andsupporting a transfer element 56. In the specific embodiment show inFIGS. 15 and 16, the first and second supports may be formed from aconcave terminal edge at the distal end 70 of the head portion 16. Thetransfer element 56 may be rotatably or non-rotatably mounted along itslength between the first and second supports. The transfer element 56may have an elongated shape, such as, but not limited to a cylinder oran elongated oval shape having a circular cross section.

The transfer element 56, includes means for holding and releasing acosmetic composition, such as mascara, and can include any type oftextured surface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition andtransferring it to a keratin fiber, e.g., eyelashes, or the skin oncontact. Any suitable textured surfaces capable of holding andtransferring a charge of cosmetic composition may be used as a transferelement 56. The textured surfaces may also be capable of impartingvarious types of aesthetically pleasing appearances to the eyelashes,such as a volumized appearance, a separated appearance (i.e., theeyelashes being individually separated from each other), a curlyappearance, etc. Examples of suitable textured surfaces includebristles, projections, indentations, fins, tines, Velcro, teeth,grooves, sponges, or flocked surfaces. The textured surfaces may beformed from any suitable substance. In some embodiments, the texturedsurfaces are formed from silicone or other soft touch materials.However, it will be understood where bristles become a sufficient lengthto be readily bent such as, for example, in a paint brush, the bristleswill no longer be considered to constitute a textured surface, and insuch case should not be included on the terminal edge of the headportion. However, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that longerbristles, for example, from about 10 to about 20 mm are within the scopeof the invention provided that they are not on the terminal edge of thehead portion, for example, longer bristles may be suitable included onone or more of the opposing face of the head portion. Bristles accordingto the invention will typically be less than 10 mm in length, less than7.5 mm in length, less than 5 mm in length, less than 2.5 mm in length.The bristles may be, without limitation integral with the body of thehead or may be synthetic fibers implanted in the head. In oneembodiment, the transfer element 56 is not unitary with the head portion14 and the bristles less than about 5 mm from the base of the transferelement 56. In certain embodiments, any bristles extending out of aterminal end of the applicator parallel to a plane containingsubstantially the head portion 14 will be less than about 5 mm, lessthan about 4.5 mm, less than about 4 mm, less than about 3.5 mm, lessthan about 3 mm, less than about 2 mm, or less than about 1 mm. In otherembodiments, the transfer element 56 will be free of bristles extendingparallel to the plane containing substantially the head portion 14. Inanother embodiment, the terminal edge of said head portion issubstantially free of bristles by which is meant that the number ofbristles extending from the terminal edge in a direction parallel to thelongitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14 are suitably low suchthat such bristles cannot materially contribute to the application ofmascara over a substantial number of eyelashes during regular use. Inother embodiments, the terminal edge will be free of bristles.

In one preferred embodiment, the texture surface may comprise an arrayof stub-like projection, fin-like projections, and/or bristles arrangedin any suitable shape or pattern and need not be symmetrical. Examplesof suitable patterns include spaced and parallel rows, staggered rowsand columns, linear rows and columns, or random patterns. An array ofprojections arranged in parallel rows in the same direction as thelongitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 14, may impart a separatedappearance to the eyelashes. In contrast, an array of projectionsarranged in staggered rows and columns, may impart a voluminousappearance to the . eyelashes. The density of the array may vary asshown in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 through 5, dependingon the characteristics of the cosmetic composition being applied.Differences in the densities of the array of projections may also impartdifferent aesthetic looks to the eyelashes.

The cosmetic applicator 10 of the present invention may be placed in akit with or used in combination with a reservoir containing or chargedwith a cosmetic composition, preferably a liquid cosmetic compositionsuch as a mascara. The reservoir may include at least one wiper foreliminating excess mascara from the transfer elements 56. In oneembodiment, the applicator 10 may serve as a closure element for thereservoir, without the use of a separate closure device, such as a capor a cover. The applicator 10 may be used in combination with thereservoir by first placing the head portion 14 into the reservoir so asto bring the transfer element into contact with the mascara compositionand subsequently withdrawing the head portion 14 from the reservoir tometer a charge of mascara onto the transfer element 56. While the headportion 14 of the applicator 10 is being withdrawn from the reservoir,the wiper removes excess mascara from the transfer element 56 by asmoothing motion and pushing the excess mascara back into the reservoir.

To use the applicator 10 for applying a mascara composition to theeyelashes, a user may hold the handle portion 16 of the applicator 10between the thumb and fingers and place the head portion 14 directly infront of the eyelashes in a substantially vertical position, where thetransfer element 56 would be parallel or substantially parallel to theeyelid. By substantially vertical it is meant generally parallel to theline of the nose. The applicator 10 is then easily moved upwardly(towards the top of the head) or downwardly (toward the chin) in asingle motion such that the transfer element 56 engages and deposits themascara composition in a uniform manner.

The size and shape of the handle portion 16 permits the user toergonomically and stably hold the applicator 10 between the thumb andforefingers and manipulate the applicator 10 for application of amascara composition to the eyelashes. In particular, the applicator 10may be suitably sized such that the hand of the user may lean on thecheek or the forehead for additional support during application of themascara composition. The ability to lean on portions of the face such asthe cheek or the forehead provides increased stability and allows theuser to more precisely apply mascara to the eyelashes and avoid asmudged appearance.

FIGS. 2 through 12 illustrates some of the currently preferredembodiments of the applicator 10 according to the invention. Theapplicator 10 includes a head portion 14 linked to a handle portion 16at an obtuse angle, forming a generally convex surface 22 on one sidewhere the head portion 14 is linked to the handle portion 16 and agenerally concave surface 24 on an opposing side. The head portion 14has a side edge 32 on the right side of the longitudinal axis II-II ofthe head portion 14 and an opposite side edge 30 on the left side of thelongitudinal axis II-II. The head portion 14 includes an distal end 70having a slightly concave contour between the opposite side edges 30 and32. As shown in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 2 through 12, thehead portion 14 is narrower at its proximal end where it is linked tothe handle portion 16 as compared to the distal end 70 of the headportion 14.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 also includes a head portion 14having a top face 40 and a bottom face 42. The top face 40 can be planarbut is preferably convex between the opposite side edges 30 and 32. Thebottom face 42 is preferably concave between the opposite side edges 30and 32. The top and bottom faces 40, 42 can also have a concave/concave,convex/convex, planar/planar relationship or any combinations thereof.

The thickness between of the top face 40 and the bottom face 42 of thehead portion 14 may be uniform or variable. Preferably, the thickness ofthe head portion 14 between the top face 40 and the bottom face 42 is ata maximum midway between the opposite side edges 30 and 32 of the headportion 14. The head portion 14 may have a minimum thickness at theopposite side edges 30 and 32.

The top face 40 of the head portion 14 includes a transfer element 56that extends substantially from the right side edge 32 to the left sideedge 30. The transfer element 56 also extends a predetermined distancefrom the distal end 70 towards the proximal end 80. The transfer element56 includes any type of textured surface for holding a charge ofcosmetic composition and transferring it to the eyelashes on contact.The textured surface of this exemplary embodiment includes an array ofstub-like projections or bristles 57 arranged in staggered or linearrows and columns or random patterns. The density of the bristles 57 mayvary as shown in FIGS. 4 through 12, depending on the characteristics ofthe cosmetic composition being applied.

In the specific embodiments shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 12, thebottom face 42 of the head portion 14 includes a transfer element 56that extends substantially from the right side edge 32 to the left sideedge 30. The transfer element 56 on the bottom face 42 also extendsdownwardly a predetermined amount from the distal end 70 toward theproximal end 80. The transfer element 56 on the bottom face 42 alsoincludes any type of textured surface for holding a charge of cosmeticcomposition and transferring it the eyelashes on contact, which includesthe array of the stub-like projections or bristles 57 arranged in amanner similar to the arrangement of the stub-like projections orbristles 57 on the top face 40.

In other embodiments of the invention, either the transfer element 56 onthe top face 40 or the transfer element 56 on the bottom face 42 may beomitted.

In the specific embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 through 12, the distal end70 of the head portion 14 may also include a transfer element 56. Thetransfer element 56 include any type of textured surface for holding acharge of cosmetic composition and transferring it the eyelashes oncontact. Specifically, the textured surface may be formed with spacedfin-like projections that project from the edge at the distal end 70 andextend from the top face 40 to the bottom face 42. Alternatively, theedge at the distal end 70 may include the type of texture surfacesdescribes for the top face 40 and the bottom face 42. The texturedsurfaces, including fin-like projections, on the applicator 10 at theedge at the distal end 70 provide a further area on the applicator 10for applying mascara to the eyelashes. Specifically, the fin-likeprojections may have a height from the base of the texture surfaceranging from about 0.001 to about 0.5 inches. The fin-like projectionsmay be arranged in an array with spacing ranging from about 0.001 toabout 0.25 inches.

The handle portion 16 of these exemplary embodiments have a side edge 76on the left side of the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion 16and an opposite side edge 78 on the right side of the longitudinal axisI-I. These exemplary embodiments of the applicator 10 also include ahandle portion 16 having a proximal end 80 with a convex contour betweenthe left side edge 76 and the right side edge 78.

The exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 through 12 also include a tophandle face 86 and a bottom handle face 88. The top handle face 86 ispreferably convex between the left side edge 76 and the right side edge78 and the bottom handle face 88 is preferably planar between the leftside edge 76 and the right side edge 78. The handle portion 16 is widerat the proximal end 80 than its distal end where the handle portion 16is linked to the head portion 14. These exemplary embodiments of theapplicator 10 also include finger grip enhancements 94 formed on the tophandle face 86 and the bottom handle face 88.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate an alternative preferred embodiment of theapplicator 10 according to the invention including a head portion 14 anda handle portion 16 operably linked at an obtuse angle, the applicator10 having the same general shape as previously described for theexemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 through 12.

The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 provide an alternativeembodiment of a head portion 14 of the applicator 10. Similar to theexemplary embodiments of FIGS. 2 through 12, the alternative embodimentshown in FIGS. 13 and 14 includes a head portion 14 with a distal end 70having a slightly concave contour between the opposite side edges 30 and32, the head portion 14 being narrower at its proximal end where it islinked to the handle portion 16 as compared to the distal end 70 of thehead portion 14. The head portion 14 also includes a generally flat topface 40 and a generally flat bottom face 42.

The transfer element 56 is located at the distal end 70 of theapplicator 10. The transfer element 56 include any type of texturedsurface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring itthe eyelashes on contact. Specifically, the textured surface may includea row of spaced and substantially parallel fins 48. The fins 48 may havea curved contour, such as a convex contour, at the distal end 70. Thecurved contour can be rounded or of a teardrop shape. The fins 48 may bearranged in parallel to the longitudinal axis of II-II. Additionally,the fins 48 may be attached to or integral with the top face 40 and thebottom 42 and wrap around the edge at the distal end 70 between theopposite side edges 30 and 32. The fins 48 may have a top leg portion 52that extends on the top face 40 a predetermined amount toward theproximal end 80. The fins 48 also have a bottom leg portion 50 thatextends on the bottom face 42 a predetermined amount toward the proximalend 80. As shown in FIG. 14, the bottom leg portion 50 may taperdownwardly toward the bottom face 42 and the top leg portion 52 mayproject uniformly from the top face 40. Moreover, the leg portions 50and 52 may be part of a continuous and unitary fin. The projections ofthe fins 48 from the distal end 70 may have a maximum height from thebase of the texture surface, such as the top face 40, the bottom face 42or the edge at the distal end 70, ranging from about 0.001 to about 0.5inches. The fins 48 may be arranged with spacing ranging from about0.001 to about 0.25 inches.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13 also provide an alternativeembodiment of a handle portion .16 of the applicator 10. The handleportion .16 is narrower than the head portion 14 and includes cut-outsor openings 58 that facilitate gripping of the handle 16. The cut-outsor openings 58 may be in any suitable shape. Preferably, the cut-outs oropenings 58 are narrow or elongated. In the specific embodiment shown inFIG. 13, the cut-outs or openings 58 have an oval shape. In addition, asshown in FIG. 13, the cut-outs or openings 58 may be arranged parallelto each other. More preferably, the cut-outs or openings 58 having alength perpendicular to the longitudinal axis I-I of the handle portion14.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another embodiment of the applicator 10according to the invention including a head portion 14 and a handleportion 16 operably linked at an obtuse angle. The handle portion 16 ofthis particular embodiment is the same as that described or theexemplary embodiment show in FIG. 13.

The exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16 provides anotheralternative embodiment of the head portion 14 of the applicator 10. Thehead portion 16 may include a side leg 30 having an end portion 38, on aright side of the longitudinal axis II-II of the head portion 16 and aside leg 32 having an end portion 39, on the left side of thelongitudinal axis II-II. The right side leg 30 and the left side leg 32form an opening therebetween for receiving a transfer element 56. Asshown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the side legs 30 and 32 may be formed from aconcave cut-away at the distal end 70 of the head portion 16. A rightsupport opening 46 is provided in the right end portion 38 and acorresponding left support opening 47 is provided in the left endportion 39.

The transfer element 56, supported by the side legs 30 and 32, includesopposite textured surfaces 54, 58 for holding a charge of cosmeticcomposition and transferring it the eyelashes on contact. Specifically,the transfer element 56 may be in the form of a conventional mascarabrush, or can have the shape of a cylinder, or an elongated oval shapehaving a circular cross section. The transfer element 56 has oppositeends 64 and 66 with respective support pins 72 and 74 that respectivelyengage the support openings 46 and 47 in the side legs 30 and 32.

The engagement between the support pins 72 and 74 and the supportopenings 46 and 47 may be established to permit rotation of the transferelement 56 relative to the side legs 30 and 32. Alternatively, suchengagement can be non-rotatable. In another embodiment the transferelement 56 can be rendered detachable from the side legs 30 and 32, andinterchangeable with other transfer elements 56 of different shapes orsizes such as a roller shape transfer element 56 having a roundedcylindrical shape or a rounded elongated oval shape.

The invention described and claimed herein is not to be limited in scopeby the specific embodiments herein disclosed since these embodiments areintended as illustrations of several aspects of this invention. Anyequivalent embodiments are intended to be within the scope of thisinvention. Indeed, various modifications of the invention in addition tothose shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilledin the art from the foregoing description. Such modification are alsointended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. Allpublications cited herein are incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

1. An ergonomic applicator for applying a cosmetic composition to theeyelashes comprising: a handle portion suitably dimensioned to permitthe applicator to be held between the thumb and fingers on opposingfaces thereof, the opposing faces being of sufficient width relative tothe thickness separating the faces to prevent rotation of the handlewhen held between the thumb and fingers; and a head portion having atits distal end at least one transfer element comprising a texturedsurface for holding a charge of cosmetic composition and transferring itto the eyelashes on contact therewith, the at least one transfer elementextending substantially across the width of the head portion and in adirection orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the handle, wherein thelongitudinal axis of said head portion is oriented, or is rotatable tobe oriented, at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal axis ofsaid handle.
 2. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein said headportion has a terminal arcuate edge at the distal end thereof, saidarcuate edge being concave with respect to the head portion.
 3. Theapplicator according to claim 1, wherein said head portion has anarcuate cross-section about its longitudinal axis.
 4. The applicatoraccording to claim 1, wherein said at least one transfer element isincluded on one or both opposing faces of said head portion.
 5. Theapplicator according to claim 1, wherein said transfer element isdisposed along the terminal edge at the distal end of said head portion.6. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein said at least onetextured surface is independently selected from the group consisting ofbristles, projections, indentations, fins, tines, Velcro, teeth,grooves, sponges, and flocked surfaces.
 7. The applicator according toclaim 6, wherein said at least one textured surface comprises fins 8.The applicator according to claim 6, wherein said at least one texturedsurface comprises bristles.
 9. The applicator according to claim 8,wherein said bristles have a length less than 5 mm.
 10. The applicatoraccording to claim 1, wherein said head portion further comprises afirst support and a second support defining an opening therebetween forreceiving said transfer element, said transfer element mounted betweensaid first and second supports.
 11. The applicator according to claim 1,wherein the handle portion further comprises finger grip enhancements orcut-outs to increase friction between the handle portion and the thumbor fingers.
 12. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein said obtuseangle is from about 120 degrees to about 170 degrees.
 13. The applicatoraccording to claim I, wherein the maximum thickness separating the facesof the handle portion compared to the maximum width of the handleportion is at a ratio from about 1:5 to about 1:50.
 14. The applicatoraccording to claim 1, wherein said applicator is from about 35 mm toabout 80 mm at its longest point.
 15. The applicator according to claim1, wherein said head portion is rotatably adjustable with respect tosaid handle portion so as to adjust the obtuse angle between saidlongitudinal axis of said head portion and said longitudinal axis ofsaid handle portion.
 16. The applicator according to claim 15, whereinsaid head portion and said handle portion are rotatable about an axisorthogonal to said longitudinal axis of said head portion and saidlongitudinal axis of said handle portion.
 17. The applicator accordingto claim 16, further comprising a hinge permitting rotation of said headportion with respect to said handle portion.
 18. A kit comprising theapplicator according to claim 1 and a container charged with a liquidcosmetic for application to a keratin fiber, and configured to receivethe head portion of said applicator when inserted into said container soas to bring said transfer element into contact with said composition,and a wiper attached to said container for removing excess compositionfrom said transfer element upon removal of the applicator from thecontainer.
 19. A method for applying mascara to the eyelashes comprisingmetering a charge of mascara onto the transfer element of the applicatoraccording to claim 1 and transferring the composition to the eyelashesby contacting the transfer element with said eyelashes while holding theapplicator in a substantially vertical position.